The Government of Canada is reminding consumers about certain chili products recalled from Wal-Mart stores on July_22, 2007 due to potential serious health risks.
The recalled products may contain the Clostridium botulinum (botulism) toxin, which can cause paralysis, respiratory failure, and, in severe cases, death.
Consumers who have purchased Great Value Original Chili with Beans, sold in 425 g cans bearing UPC 6 81131 79994 2 and Great Value Hot Chili with Beans, sold in 425 g cans bearing UPC 6 81131 79995 9, should dispose of these products immediately. These products were sold exclusively at Wal-Mart stores across Canada. The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) is monitoring the effectiveness of this recall.
The CFIA has already issued three public advisories warning consumers about this issue. However, given the potential health risks, the long shelf life of the products and the seasonal likelihood that these types of products could be used at cottages, while camping or travelling, the Government of Canada is undertaking an enhanced public awareness effort.
The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) has shared this information with provincial and local health officials through the Canadian Integrated Outbreak Surveillance Centre, which is a secure web-based alert system used to distribute public health information to public health officials across the country. In addition, PHAC officials have been in contact with their provincial counterparts by phone and by e-mail.
The manufacturer, Castleberry?s (www.castleberrys.com), is also recalling four varieties of dog food manufactured in the same facility as the recalled chili. Consumers are also advised to dispose of 15 oz cans of Natural Balance Eatables for Dogs sold in the following varieties: Irish Stew with Beef, Potatoes and Carrots, Hobo Chili with Chicken and Pasta, Southern Style Dumplings with Gravy with Chicken and Vegetables, and Chinese Take-Out With Sauce With Vegetables and Chicken. Inadvertent exposure or cross-contamination while handling these products could result in human illness.
The Government of Canada is also conducting a national media blitz and is working with retailers of the chili and pet food to raise awareness among consumers who may have purchased products before their recall.
Currently a larger recall involving numerous products and brands is underway in the United States. Anyone who has or plans to purchase canned chili or other canned meat products in the U.S. should consult the United States Food and Drug Administration?s website at www.fda.gov for a complete list of recalled products. Additional information about the U.S. recall is available through the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention website at www.cdc.gov.
Updated information will be posted to the Canadian Food Inspection?s Web site at www.inspection.gc.ca as it becomes available.
Food contaminated with c. botulinum toxin may not look or smell spoiled. Consumption of food contaminated with the toxin may initially cause nausea, vomiting, fatigue, dizziness, headache, double vision or dry throat. Anyone who thinks they may have consumed potentially affected products should consult a physician immediately. Similarly, pet owners who notice signs of illness in their animals should contact a veterinarian.